By Zachary Flynn
The Ooks found some midseason tournament success before the start of the winter semester in the annual North vs South basketball tournament hosted by NAIT.
The Ooks soared to victories both days, beating St. Mary’s University 100-85 on day one and securing a win on day two over Olds College 98-75.
The Ooks also welcome American Markus Taylor-Knighten to the starting lineup. Taylor-Knighten has been with the team since the beginning of the semester but was waiting to gain eligibility to play in the ACAC. He comes into the team’s rotation as Will Pittman’s name leaves the Ooks’ roster.
“They are two totally different players, [in the] positions they play and skills they bring,” said head coach Slav Kornik.
“It changed things for us in terms of what we’re looking to do offensively and the dynamic of our team. Definitely, it changes things so it was good to have a couple of games this weekend,” said Kornik.
Despite the Ooks’ success, Kornik still says there are areas of improvement if the team wants to achieve its goals this year.
“We want to compete in provincials, that’s our goal. We know we have a long way to go and a lot of room for improvement that’s going to take a lot of work for us,” said Kornik.
Kornik’s coaching record with the Ooks is 8-6 after his first semester with the Ooks. Now months into his role, he is settling into the rhythm of being a full-time head coach.
“Like anything, it takes time, with time it becomes a little more natural and getting used to how things work around here, learning from my mistakes and not to make them twice,” said Kornik.
